Undersecretary of State for Defense Matteo Perego of Cremnago went to the Philippines on the occasion of the ship's stop in Manila Morosini of the Navy that touched the tenth port of its Naval Campaign in Indo Pacific.
“A unique opportunity! The opportunity to meet representatives of the Philippine government, resume and finalize negotiations for a bilateral Defense Agreement and thus constitute an essential basis for structured cooperation between our countries" the undersecretary said in a meeting with Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. “which will allow for mutual benefits. I am convinced that there is great potential to intensify our bilateral relations in the defense sector and today we have embarked together on the path to signing an agreement that allows the further development of a historic and fruitful collaboration for both parties".
This eventuality was also reaffirmed by the Italian ambassador in Manila Marco Clemente, who recalled a shared vision of international relations based on respect for the principles of international law.
The undersecretary then visited Nave Morosini, technological jewel of the Navy, and greeted the crew that departed from La Spezia on 6 April.
“The Indo-Pacific Campaign” stated the undersecretary in his greeting address to the crew of the Morosini “is confirming its importance and your previous stops, the activities carried out in the countries you have already visited and the positive results achieved are tangible proof of this. Your presence in a region of great strategic interest for our country and for the EU will help strengthen and broaden ties with the Navies of allied and partner countries, while interacting with the navies present in the region”.
“Your activity of sharing and disseminating national values and culture” continued Perego "it is vital for our country, and has a strong political, diplomatic significance and for the national economy and industries: you are all among the most beautiful expressions of the COUNTRY SYSTEM".
During the meetings with the local political authorities, the undersecretary underlined the importance of bilateral relations with the countries of the Indo-Pacific area, in particular with those of ASEAN (Association of South-East Asian Nations), considering that Italy has become Development Partners of the association from 9 September 2020.
